Spaghetti Casserole

A comforting and flavorful Spaghetti Casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress. This dish features layers of spaghetti, a creamy cheese blend, and savory meat sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese that makes each bite irresistible. It’s versatile enough to be a weeknight meal or a special occasion favorite. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare while still offering a great taste that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this casserole comes together quickly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of meat sauce and cheese appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This dish can be assembled in advance and baked when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with different meats or veggies based on what you have on hand.
• Comfort Food Classic: Warm, cheesy, and hearty—perfect for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Spaghetti Casserole a breeze. Here are the essentials you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking dish: The perfect size for layering your casserole ingredients evenly.
• Large pot for boiling pasta: Ensures you have enough space for the spaghetti to cook properly without sticking.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning meat and mixing sauces efficiently.

Ingredients

A delicious casserole made with layers of spaghetti, a creamy cheese mixture, savory meat sauce, and topped with melted cheddar cheese.

For the Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar spaghetti sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 lb cottage cheese (1 cup)
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
• 1 pkg spaghetti (16 oz)
• Grated cheddar cheese

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly when it’s time to bake.

Step 2: Boil the Spaghetti Noodles

Boil the spaghetti noodles until they are al dente. Drain them well in a colander and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until well blended. This creamy mixture adds richness to the casserole.

Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then mix in the spaghetti sauce until heated through.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

• Place a few slices of butter into your 9×13 pan.
• Layer half of the cooked spaghetti noodles on top of the butter.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over this layer of noodles.
• Add the remaining noodles on top of the cream cheese mixture. Dot with more slices of butter for added flavor.

Step 6: Add Meat Sauce Topping

Pour the spaghetti and meat sauce mixture over the top layer of noodles evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Place in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes.

Step 8: Add Cheese Topping

After baking, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top of your casserole. Return it to the oven for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy your homemade Spaghetti Casserole, loaded with flavor in every bite!

How to Serve Spaghetti Casserole

Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful dish that is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Serving it can be just as creative as making it. Here are some fun serving ideas to elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a communal experience. This approach encourages sharing and brings everyone together at the table.

Individual Portions

• For a more refined look, scoop out individual servings onto plates. This method allows guests to enjoy their own plate while making it easy to manage portions.

With Fresh Herbs

• Top each serving with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile of your dish.

Accompanied by Garlic Bread

• Serve warm slices of garlic bread alongside the casserole. The crunchy texture and buttery flavor complement the creamy pasta beautifully.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Offer additional grated cheese at the table for those who like an extra cheesy touch on their servings. It makes for a richer experience!

Paired with Salad

• A light green salad can balance the richness of the casserole. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette for freshness.

How to Perfect Spaghetti Casserole

Creating the perfect Spaghetti Casserole takes attention to detail and some helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor of your casserole. Opt for high-quality sauces and cheeses for the best results.
• Don’t overcook spaghetti: Boil spaghetti until it is al dente. Overcooked noodles can become mushy when baked in the casserole.
• Layer wisely: Create distinct layers in your casserole for better flavor distribution. Alternate between noodles, cheese mixtures, and meat sauce.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This helps it set up nicely and makes cutting easier.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add herbs or spices to your meat sauce for added depth. Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes can provide extra flavor.
• Cover while baking: If you notice that your casserole is browning too quickly, cover it with foil during part of the baking process to prevent burning.

Best Side Dishes for Spaghetti Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Spaghetti Casserole enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that offers a crunchy texture and buttery flavor, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and croutons provides a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole.
3. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition, complementing the creamy dish beautifully.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the rich flavors of the Spaghetti Casserole.
5. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light and flavorful side.
6. Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned asparagus spears bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with cheesy casseroles.

These suggestions will help make your meal even more enjoyable!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Spaghetti Casserole can be straightforward, but certain mistakes can lead to a less-than-perfect dish. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using overcooked noodles: Overcooking the spaghetti can result in a mushy casserole. Always boil the noodles until they are al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking.

• Skipping the cheese mixture: Forgetting or skimping on the creamy cheese mixture can make your casserole dry. Ensure you blend cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese well for a rich texture.

• Not draining the meat: Failing to drain the ground beef after browning can make your casserole greasy. Always drain excess fat for a healthier dish.

• Inadequate seasoning: Relying solely on store-bought sauce may lead to blandness. Enhance flavors with herbs and spices or a pinch of salt and pepper.

• Ignoring layering: Not layering ingredients properly can affect texture and flavor distribution. Follow the steps carefully for an even blend of flavors throughout.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Spaghetti Casserole in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing for best results.

Freezing Spaghetti Casserole

• Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Spaghetti Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes. This helps retain moisture.

• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary. Cover and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying Spaghetti Casserole.

Can I make Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to adjust baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What variations can I try for my Spaghetti Casserole?

You can customize your casserole by adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or using different types of cheese such as mozzarella or Parmesan for varied flavors.

How do I know when Spaghetti Casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it is bubbly around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. A cooking thermometer should read at least 165°F (74°C).

Can I use turkey instead of beef for my Spaghetti Casserole?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that makes your dish leaner while still providing delicious flavor.

Final Thoughts

Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting dish that brings families together around the dinner table. Its creamy layers and savory meat sauce provide a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or add extra veggies for added nutrition. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Spaghetti Casserole

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Indulge in the comforting layers of Spaghetti Casserole, a delightful dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings. This recipe combines al dente spaghetti with a rich, creamy cheese blend and a savory meat sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese that guarantees satisfaction in every bite. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for both weeknight meals and special occasions, and the easy preparation ensures you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With customizable ingredients, you can adapt this dish to suit your taste preferences, making it a true crowd-pleaser everyone will love.

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar spaghetti sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/2 lb cottage cheese
• 1 pkg spaghetti (16 oz)
• Grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil spaghetti noodles until al dente; drain well.
3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth.
4. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat and stir in spaghetti sauce.
5. In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half the spaghetti, followed by the cheese mixture, then the remaining noodles topped with meat sauce.
6. Bake for 30 minutes; sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.